Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 11, 2024 12:21 pm GMT
The Detroit Tigers faced a difficult setback on Thursday night, succumbing to the Colorado Rockies with a final score of 4-2 at Comerica Park. The loss, which halted the Tigers’ winning streak at four games, comes at a critical time as the team continues its pursuit of a playoff spot in the crowded American League wild card race.
Late-Inning Struggles Cost the Tigers
The eyes of the baseball world were on right-handed reliever Jason Foley, whose impressive streak of 18 consecutive games without allowing an earned run was shattered in the ninth inning. With the Tigers holding a slim lead, Foley’s performance faltered, leading to two earned runs for the Rockies as they clinched their victory.
Despite leading for a stretch, the Tigers could not maintain their advantage, a frustrating reality echoed by first baseman Spencer Torkelson. “All losses suck,” Torkelson remarked post-game. “I don’t really think it matters what the result of it is, but losing sucks. Obviously, we’d like to get a win here, but we didn’t. They just beat us, and that’s that. We’ll come back tomorrow ready to go.”
Tarik Skubal Shines Yet Again
Left-hander Tarik Skubal, considered a frontrunner for the American League Cy Young Award, demonstrated once again why he is a key asset for the Tigers. In his six innings of work, Skubal allowed just one run on four hits, not issuing any walks and striking out six batters. His performance included a rocky moment when he took a comebacker to his non-throwing hand in the sixth inning. Fortunately, X-rays showed no fractures, and he assured fans, “It’s a little sore, but I think I’m fine.”
With this outing, Skubal boasts an impressive 2.50 ERA across 29 starts this season, a testament to his abilities on the mound. However, he criticized his own execution during the game, acknowledging the need to return to his previous form. “Not a lot of first-pitch strikes, a lot of misfires. I got to get back to what makes me a good pitcher,” he stated.
Tigers Offense Struggles in Clutch Moments
The Tigers managed to threaten the Rockies in the ninth inning, courtesy of a walk from Colt Keith and a two-out infield single from Torkelson. However, they could not capitalize on the opportunity as Zach McKinstry struck out, sealing the game in favor of Colorado.
The Tigers got on the board in the fourth inning, when Torkelson hit a two-run double that gave them a brief 2-1 lead. His ability to remain patient at the plate, drawing crucial balls, paid off as he pinned a hanging curveball for the score.
Despite this moment of brilliance, the offense fell short in key situations during the later innings. In the seventh, the Rockies rally was highlighted by a pinch-hitter Charlie Blackmon’s infield single that tied the game at 2-2, a play that showcased the Tigers’ defensive vulnerability.
Playoff Picture Grows Complicated
With their latest loss, the Tigers (75-72) now find themselves 3½ games behind the Minnesota Twins for the third and final American League wild card spot. Taking into account the tiebreaker, the gap widens to 4½ games, increasing the urgency for the Tigers as only 15 regular-season games remain.
The loss has not only impacted the Tigers’ postseason aspirations but also highlighted the pressure players are under as the season progresses. A resilient mindset remains vital, as Torkelson mentioned, emphasizing the need to refocus for their upcoming contests.
Upcoming Challenges
As the Tigers prepare for their next series, they are aware that every game counts. The team faces a challenging road ahead, with several matchups against rivals that could significantly impact their chances for a postseason berth.
Manager A.J. Hinch expressed confidence in the team’s ability to rebound, stating, “We need to be able to put this behind us and focus on the next game and the next opportunity.”
The Tigers will aim to regroup quickly and capitalize on their strengths as the September calendar ticks down, bolstering their playoff hopes in this highly competitive season.
In short, the Tigers need to fix their problems in the last few innings of games. They should also keep relying on important players like Skubal and Torkelson as they finish the regular season.
